Overview: An atypical European post player who is more eager to play physical around the rim than shoot from the outside. From the Republic of Georgia. Has good size and bulk, but relatively pedestrian athleticism overall. Works hard, which overshadows many of his weaknesses, especially on the defensive end and as an option down low. Has nice fundamental skills on the low block. Really looks like a seasoned veteran in the post. Doesnt have an amazing skill-set, but makes up for it with consistency and intensity, which is something that cant be said for many NBA centers. Has seen his role shrink substantially with the addition of Al Horford. Hasnt been as efficient as he has been historically because of that. A team player regardless and a very positive character in the locker room.
Offense: Doesnt have the physical assets to dominate his man down low, but his craftiness allows him to put points on the board. Plays to his strengths. Understands that he isnt going to overwhelm anyone with his athleticism or foot speed. Uses fakes to create angles and get shots up on the glass. Has good footwork. Doesnt overpower defenders with his drop step. Creates open looks for himself none the less. Able to pivot around the defense and use his body to shield the ball to help him hide the fact that he isnt explosive around the rim. Is solid but unspectacular as a jump shooter, showing good touch, but lacking a consistent release point. Tends to lean to the side when he shoots, which makes his shot look awkward. Shoots a good percentage from the line, so the elimination of that lean could do him some good. Doesnt show a lot off the dribble. Can hit turnarounds with decent consistency after putting the ball on the floor. Maintains his position underneath allowing him to grab offensive rebounds and accumulate tip-ins. Has his limitations offensively, but shows the savvy or a seasoned veteran, which allows him to put up decent scoring numbers.
Defense: Limited physically, making it hard for him to make an impact on the defensive end. Susceptible to quicker post players. Lack of athleticism allows players to take advantage of him around the rim. Not incredibly big either for the center position. Does a decent job of denying entry passes. Isnt a defensive stopper by any stretch of the imagination. Blocks an occasional shot, but isnt explosive enough to get to many shots in the paint. Bodies his man and forces him into taking bad shots. Is a formidable matchup due to his toughness, but not one that will shut down scorers with go-to-moves. Tends to just box his man out and let his teammates grab rebounds.
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